For many, dogs are cherished family members, loved unconditionally and treated with the utmost care and respect.

However, not everyone shares this sentiment, as evidenced by the shocking story of a man from Indiana who attempted to have his two perfectly healthy dogs euthanized for the sake of convenience.

A Heartbreaking Request

In June 2018, the man brought his two senior dogs, Cosmo, a small Labrador Retriever mix, and Sam, a Pointer, to his local vet clinic with a distressing request – to have them euthanized.

The bonded pair had lived with their owner for nearly a decade, and despite being happy and healthy, their owner no longer considered them a necessary part of his life.

The reason behind this cruel decision? The man was moving in with his girlfriend, who was allergic to dogs.

Instead of seeking alternative solutions or surrendering the dogs to a shelter, he opted for what is known as “convenience euthanasia” – ending an animal’s life simply because they no longer fit into the owner’s lifestyle.

A Vet’s Compassionate Refusal

Thankfully, the veterinarian at the clinic refused to euthanize Cosmo and Sam, recognizing that they were in good health and did not deserve such a fate.

None of us want to end a pet’s life unless it is to prevent suffering,

the vet stated firmly

The dogs were then sent to Begin Again Rescue Co (BARC), a foster-based, non-profit dog rescue in Valparaiso, Indiana.

Though it took time for Cosmo and Sam to heal from the heartbreak of abandonment, the dedicated volunteers at BARC helped them regain their appetite, playfulness, and zest for life.

The Search For A Forever Home

Finding a forever home for a bonded pair of senior dogs proved to be a challenge, despite the fact that Cosmo and Sam still had plenty of life and love to give.

After months without success, the dogs were transferred to P.A.W.S. Tinley Park, a no-kill animal shelter in Illinois, where their story was shared on social media.

“Cosmo & Sam are a bonded pair of senior dogs, just looking to be part of a family again,” the shelter wrote on their Facebook page, detailing the dogs’ nightly routine of endless fetch and their unwavering loyalty and affection towards every person they met.

A Happy Ending At Last

In early December 2018, Cosmo and Sam’s Christmas wish finally came true. Eric and Tiffany Dybas, a couple who had recently lost their beloved dog, fell in love with the pair after hearing their heartbreaking story.

Thanks to our friends at P.A.W.S. Tinley Park, Sam and Cosmo are laying on a comfy couch tonight! They were so good when they visited Santa and now their Christmas wish came true! They have a home!

BARC announced on their Facebook page.

According to the shelter, Cosmo and Sam are now living their best lives, showered with love and affection in their new forever home.

This story serves as a powerful reminder that every animal deserves a chance at a happy life, regardless of age or circumstance.

It also highlights the critical role that veterinarians and rescue organizations play in advocating for the well-being of animals, even in the face of misguided or cruel requests.

May Cosmo and Sam’s journey inspire us all to be champions for those who cannot speak for themselves, and to always choose compassion over convenience when it comes to the lives of our furry companions.

Dog Love